Photo credit: Dana Ranes: Carrie and IzzieOvariohysterectomy is the medical term for spaying or neutering female rabbits. The procedure consists of surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus. Surgery is usually performed at 4-6 months of age, but is beneficial at any age.

Prevention of pregnancy is the main reason for surgery, but the procedure is also performed in treating and preventing severe uterine infections and ovarian and uterine cancer.

Though it is routinely performed, ovariohysterectomy is a major abdominal surgery requiring general anesthesia (isoflurane) and sterile operating techniques. Pain medication is given before and after surgery to help with post-surgical discomfort.

What Are the Advantages?

• There will be a calmer disposition
• Litter box habits often become more consistant
• There will be no unwanted pregnancies
• Cancer of the uterus and ovaries (which occurs in 80% of rabbits over age 4) will be averted.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will it make my rabbit fat and lazy? No. Obesity is due to excessive calorie intake. Weight can be controlled with proper feeding and exercise.
2. Will it change her disposition, personality or intelligence? Generally after surgery, female rabbits are less aggressive and more enjoyable pets. Often they will enjoy companion rabbits more readily as well.
3. Shouldn't my rabbit have a litter first? No. There is no advantage in allowing your rabbit to have a litter.
4. Will my rabbit be given pain medication? Definately. Pain medication is very important. Pre-anesthetic pain medication is given before surgery along with medication to take home for the first couple days.

click to enlargeImportant Considerations Before and After Surgery

• Your rabbit should be healthy overall before surgery
• Do not restrict food or water prior to surgery
• Bring fresh greens and hay for your rabbit immediately after surgery
• Plan to pick up your rabbit in the early afternoon of the surgery day
• Restrict your rabbit's activity for 10 days after surgery
• Suture removal is NOT necessary

Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:

• Your rabbit irritates the incision
• Your rabbit refuses to eat, is depressed or has small stools 12-24 hours after surgery
• There is a change in your rabbits general health